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The growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality sector in 2025 is driving a major shift in the emirate’s global positioning. Once known primarily for its oil wealth, Abu Dhabi is now emerging as a world-class destination for tourism, hospitality, and wellness. Backed by strong economic growth, advanced infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is rapidly becoming a preferred hub for both international travelers and forward-thinking entrepreneurs.

Abu Dhabi International Airport: A Key Gateway for Global Visitors

The gateway to Abu Dhabi’s growth story is its rapidly expanding aviation infrastructure. In 2015, Abu Dhabi International Airport had already crossed the 2 million-passenger mark in a single month. A decade later, the airport, now rebranded as Zayed International Airport, is operating at a much larger scale.

In Q1 2025, Abu Dhabi welcomed over 1.4 million international overnight visitors, thanks to new airline routes, expanded services from Etihad Airways, and growing global interest in the city’s attractions. Key global markets driving visitor inflows include India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US. This growth is part of the government’s ambitious plan to attract 39.3 million visitors annually by 2030, as outlined in the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030.

Abu Dhabi’s appeal extends beyond tourism; it is ranked the second-best city for digital nomads in 2025, a recognition reflecting the emirate’s vibrant infrastructure, connectivity, and lifestyle offerings that cater to remote workers and entrepreneurial talent from around the world.

Hospitality Sector in Abu Dhabi: Breaking Records in 2025

Abu Dhabi’s hospitality sector is one of the strongest drivers of its non-oil economy. Hotels across the emirate reported record-breaking performance in 2025:

• Hotel Revenue (Q1 2025): AED 2.3 billion (+18% YoY)
• Hotel Occupancy Rate: 79%
• RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room): AED 484 (+25% YoY)
• Hotel Room Supply: Over 33,000 rooms across 150+ hotels
  

This growth has been fueled by a diverse set of offerings from luxury resorts on Saadiyat Island, to vibrant family attractions on Yas Island. Key attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros World continue to draw millions of visitors annually.

New projects, including the Guggenheim Museum Abu Dhabi and a recently announced Disney Theme Park, are expected to further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a top luxury and family-friendly tourism destination in the Middle East.

Medical Tourism and Wellness: A New Growth Pillar

Abu Dhabi is emerging as a leading destination for medical tourism in the GCC, offering high-quality healthcare, modern infrastructure, and government-supported wellness programs. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi recorded a 35% increase in international patient visits in 2024, serving over 10,000 overseas patients.

The emirate’s strengths lie in fields like cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatment. The integration of wellness resorts and rehabilitation centers within hospitality developments is also becoming a key trend offering visitors a seamless mix of healthcare and relaxation.

Abu Dhabi’s Economy in 2025: Diversification in Action

The state of tourism and hospitality in Abu Dhabi for 2025 reflects a resilient and rapidly diversifying economy. With a reported 3.4% GDP growth in Q1 2025, the government’s commitment to reducing reliance on oil is clear through strategic initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030. Supported by a stable political environment and investor-friendly tax policies, Abu Dhabi continues to establish itself as a dynamic business hub. In Q1 2025, the emirate reported:

• Total GDP: AED 291 billion
• Non-Oil Sector Contribution: 56.2% of GDP
• Non-Oil Sector Growth: 6.1% YoY
• Overall GDP Growth: 3.4% YoY
  

This shift is driven by strong performance in tourism, healthcare, creative industries, and ICT all of which align with the government’s Economic Vision 2030. The emirate’s long-term stability, infrastructure investments, and innovation-driven policies are making it a magnet for global businesses and SMEs alike.

Why Should You Invest in Abu Dhabi in 2025?

Whether you are an investor, entrepreneur, or SME, Abu Dhabi offers a compelling proposition for business:

• 0% corporate tax on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and no personal income tax
• 100% foreign ownership in mainland and free zone setups
• No minimum capital requirement for most LLCs
• Robust legal framework and efficient licensing procedures
• Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa
  

In addition, ongoing reforms in commercial law, visa systems, and public-private partnerships are lowering barriers for new businesses entering the market.

Where to Invest in Abu Dhabi in 2025: Top Business Opportunities by Sector

Based on current trends and government focus areas, key sectors offering high-growth opportunities in Abu Dhabi include:

• Food & beverage concepts
• Experiential travel and eco-tourism
  
• Specialty clinics and medical centers
• Sports Rehabilitation centers
• Wellness and recovery resorts
  

With the government actively supporting these sectors through funding programs, incentives, and simplified business setup, Abu Dhabi is ripe for exploration by entrepreneurs and international investors.

Why Choose Research Konnection for Market Research in Abu Dhabi?

Research Konnection is a leading market research company in Abu Dhabi and UAE. We specialize in Abu Dhabi business setup through data and insights. Our team has a strong track record of supporting startups, SMEs, and international investors on how to start a company in Abu Dhabi. Contact us for assistance in:

• In-depth Market Research & Sector Analysis
• Comprehensive Feasibility Studies
• Investor-grade Business Plans
• Expert support for Business Setup in Abu Dhabi
• How to start a company in Abu Dhabi

Get in touch to enter the Abu Dhabi market, and let us help you identify growth opportunities in hospitality, tourism, healthcare, and key emerging sectors.